AHMF: 98 Conference: Rappaport

Outcome of a Multi-Disciplinary Rehabilitation Programme for CFS Using Vocational Measures

Agnes Rappaport, B.A. (Hons), M. Psychology, Liam Wallington, B. Physiotherapy, Dr. Anne-Marie Fulop, MBBS FACR MFAFRM (RACP)

Commonwealth Rehabilitation Service
Darlinghurst
Sydney

There have been numerous studies reported in the literature on the possible causes of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, psychological/psychiatric aspects of the disorder as well as pharmacological treatments, but very few on vocational outcome following intervention.

This paper presents vocational outcome on 52 CFS sufferers who completed a 10 week multi-disciplinary rehabilitation programme at CRS, Darlinghurst, Sydney.

Mean duration of the illness was 7 years. The programme involved Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy, clinical Psychology and Rehabilitation Counselling.

Vocational outcome was measured in terms of employment status. The percentage unemployed/not work-ready decreased from 78.8% at the start of the programme to 44.2% and the percentage employed increased from 19.2% to 40.4%.

The programme and outcome measures are discussed in more detail. It is suggested that even individuals who have had CFS for a long period can benefit from rehabilitation involving vocational goals.